A rescue dog which saved a number of people after the Ecuador earthquake has died.

The Labrador was used to search for survivors after the 7.8 magnitude quake struck off the Ecuadorean coast last week.

At least 655 people died, 48 are still missing and thousands are injured after whole towns were destroyed.

The Ibarra fire department said Dayko died from heatstroke after working to find anyone trapped in rubble.

At least 27 countries have sent rescue teams to Ecuador over the past week and 113 people have been rescued alive.

Foreign nationals from the UK, Ireland, Canada, Colombia, Cuba and the Dominican Republic have been confirmed among the dead.

Ecuador's president Rafael Correa said during a visit to the worst-affected region that the cost of rebuilding could be up to $3bn (£2.1bn).

It's been reported that Dayko saved around seven people in the rescue effort since last week.

The four-year-old dog had worked with the Ibarra fire department canine unit for the last two-and-a-half years.

A post mortem revealed that Dayko died during a medical examination on Friday after a heart attack and acute respiratory failure.

He'd worked in several locations including Ibarra and Pedernales and had national and international certifications.

A statement from Ibarra fire department on its Facebook page said: "We regret to inform you that the Ibarra fire service is in mourning because we have lost Dayko, who took part in the search at Pedernales.

"This four legged friend gave his life in the line of duty. Thank you Dayko for your heroic efforts in Pedernales and in various emergencies where you were present.

"You held high the name of the K9 unit."

His handler Alex Yela said: "When Dayko arrived he amazed everyone with his friendly character, but he gradually showed his skills and qualities over time.

"In his life Dayko collaborated in several searches in Esmeraldas, Lita and found a French national who was lost in the Imbabura region.

"He also took part in presentations to children and impressed at canine shows."